Prelude - Last prep before departure.

Almost ready to go, with last bits and pieces to collect and proper inventory taken so I don't leave anything behind. Having had some minor eye surgery the other day, I'm a bit conscious of my hygiene over the next few days, but it should heal up pretty quick.

The kit: I'll admit it looks like a ton of stuff, and it pretty much is, but for 5 months especially with wear and tear I think I'll need it. 2 pairs of boots, my heavy "head kicking" boots, and my light rugged Danners. Lots of socks, because socks are probably mankind's best invention, where would the world be without them? Technology wise it may sounds daft but I'm taking the laptop so when I get to the village I can job hunt effectively. The Ipad is too, I've got a few books on it and a few useful reference guides. I'm not taking everything and the kitchen sink, just enough to stay warm, dry and especially tick and midge proof. Midges on Rum are legendary, they come in clouds that hover over you like smoke. They crawl all over you and die in their droves whilst seeking to breach your defenses. Sit still for long enough and small mounds of dead midge begin to build at your feet like grey sand. Ticks are more of a menace, especially the tiny little ones. Lyme disease is a risk but you can't keep all the ticks out, there's always one or two attached to your waist or ankle. I came across a tick nest or "pepper tick explosion" as its called last year. One minute the gators were clean, the next they were covered in all sizes of the wee buggers. The large adult females monstrously striding towards your knees are a little creepy, but at least you can see them coming.
Tomorrow I start the journey to Fort William, before getting the train on Saturday to Mallaig and the ferry to Rum. What happens then is yet to be discovered!